What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sr. Engineer, Manufacturing Automation position at Sonova?
Who we are
At Sonova, we envision a world where everyone can enjoy the delight of hearing. This vision inspires us and fuels our commitment to developing innovative solutions that improve hearing health and human connection - from personal audio devices and wireless communication systems to hearing aids and cochlear implants. We're dedicated to providing outstanding customer experiences through our global audiological care services, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to engage fully with the world around them.
Guided by a culture of continuous improvement that fosters resilience and self-motivation, our team is united by a shared commitment to excellence and a deep sense of pride in our work, each of us playing a vital role in creating meaningful change,
Here you’ll find a diverse range of opportunities that span both consumer and medical solutions and the freedom to shape your career while making an impact on the lives of others. Join us in our mission to create a more connected world, where every voice is heard and every story matters.
Sr. Engineer, Manufacturing Automation
Location: Aurora, IL, USA (30% travel required across USA, Canada, Mexico, Brazil; occasional global travel)
Who we are
In a life without sound, our work provides meaning. As a leading provider of innovative hearing care solutions, we are not just a company that makes products: we are a team on a mission to help people enjoy the delight of hearing. To enable a life without limitations, through our core business brands – Advanced Bionics, Audiological Care, Phonak, Sennheiser (under license), and Unitron – we develop, manufacture and distribute solutions that push the limits of technology and redefine the future of our industry.
About the role
We are seeking a skilled Sr. Process Engineer with expertise in process improvement and automation to optimize and automate manufacturing and distribution center processes. This role will analyze workflows, design efficient plant layouts, and implement automated solutions to increase efficiency, quality, and safety. You’ll collaborate cross-functionally and lead continuous improvement initiatives across North America.
Responsibilities
- Identify and resolve process bottlenecks using Lean, Six Sigma, or similar methodologies
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance yield, cycle time, and reliability
- Design and implement automated solutions (e.g., conveyors, robotics, AS/RS systems)
- Develop and optimize plant layouts using CAD tools to improve material flow and space utilization
- Manage engineering and automation projects from concept to deployment
- Collaborate with vendors and IT teams to integrate automation systems (e.g., SAP, PLCs, SCADA)
- Create and maintain process documentation, SOPs, and validation protocols
- Support Kaizen events and use SonovaX tools for continuous improvement
More about you
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Automation (Master’s preferred)
- 4–6 years’ experience in Process Engineering, Automation, Robotics, and scale-up
- Strong analytical, organizational, and project management skills
- Proficient in AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Minitab, and Microsoft Office tools
- Experience with SAP or other ERP systems
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; team player with conflict management and influencing abilities
- Flexible and willing to travel up to 30%
What we offer
- Medical, dental and vision coverage*
- Health Savings, Health Reimbursement, Flexible Spending/Dependent Care Accounts
- TeleHealth options
- 401k plan with company match*
- Company paid life/ad&d insurance
- Short/Long-Term Disability coverage (STD/LTD)
- Accident/Hospital Indemnity coverage
- Legal/ID Theft Assistance
- PTO, floating Diversity Day, & paid holidays*
- Paid parental bonding leave
- Employee Assistance Program (24/7 mental health support, 5 paid counseling sessions)
- Internal career growth opportunities
- Tuition reimbursement
- Hearing aid discount for employees and family
- Internal social recognition platform
- Plan rules/offerings dependent upon group Company/location.
This role's pay range is between: $117,000 - $170,000. This role is also bonus eligible.
How we work
At Sonova, we prioritize the well-being of our employees and foster an inclusive environment that promotes engagement and collaboration. Our team-customized hybrid work model empowers teams to balance individual needs with business goals, offering flexibility and individualized time management. We recognize the importance of life outside of work and strive to create a supportive and motivating workplace where innovation thrives.
Ready to join us?
Don’t meet all the criteria? If you’re willing to go all in and learn, we'd love to hear from you!
We look forward to receiving your application via our online job application platform. For this position, only direct applications will be considered. Sonova does not recruit via app, telegram, carrier pigeon or any other format that does not include speaking with an actual human. If you are offered a job without speaking with someone, please contact Sonova Human Resources.
Sonova is an equal opportunity employer.
We team up. We grow talent. We collaborate with people of diverse backgrounds to win with the best team in the market place. We guarantee every person equal treatment in regard to employment and opportunity for employment, regardless of a candidate’s ethnic or national origin, religion, sexual orientation or marital status, gender, genetic identity, age, disability or any other legally protected status.
Salary : $117,000 - $170,000
